Two dead in Italy as heatwave grips much of Europe

Two people have died in Italy as parts of Europe continue to face extreme heat, triggering red alerts, wildfires, and health warnings across several countries. As per a report by BBC News, in Bologna, a 47-year-old man died after falling ill while working on a construction site. In a separate incident, a 70-year-old man drowned during flash flooding near a tourist resort west of Turin.

Italian authorities have placed 21 cities, including Rome, Milan, and Venice, under the highest level of heat alert. In Tuscany, local reports say hospital admissions have increased by 20%. Several regions, including Lombardy and Emilia, have advised residents to avoid going outdoors during peak temperatures. In Lombardy, outdoor work has been banned between 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm on hot days until September.

The heatwave is affecting much of Europe. In France, 16 regions, including Paris, are on red alert. The Education Ministry has ordered full or partial closures of more than 1,300 public schools. The top of the Eiffel Tower has been closed due to safety concerns.

In Portugal and Spain, temperatures have climbed above 46°C, breaking June records. Seville and Barcelona recorded night temperatures of 28°C and 27°C, respectively. Relief is expected in some areas starting Thursday.

According to the report, wildfires have forced more than 50,000 people to evacuate in Turkey’s Izmir province, with emergency teams responding to over 260 fires nationwide since Saturday.

In Greece, wildfires have destroyed homes near Athens, while in Germany, authorities warned of temperatures nearing 38°C. The heat has also lowered water levels in the Rhine River, affecting cargo transport.

Experts say such extreme weather is becoming more frequent due to climate change. The UN’s Human Rights Chief Volker Turk warned that rising temperatures pose threats to basic human rights, including access to health and a safe environment.